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Health & Wellness Updates

Update: May 13, 2020

LPU Community,

Happy Finals Week! We are praying for all of you as you finish the semester strong. As we enter into the summer months there are new updates and announcement coming out regarding the COVID19 pandemic and stay-at-home orders. In light of the recent announcements by many public institutions in California, we want to remind our students and community that our plans have not changed and LPU, as well as many other Christian universities, remain committed to opening this fall in a manner that allows for the health and safety of our students. We are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to provide ongoing updates.

Many students and members in our community are curious about what will happen with athletics in the fall. LPU is following the guidelines by the Golden State Athletic Conference. They have shared the following announcement yesterday regarding plans for fall semester:

The Golden State Athletic Conference has been tracking the progress of the Covid-19 pandemic since it made the painful decision to cancel the 2020 spring sports season. The situation remains fluid, locally and nationally. However, the ten member institutions of the GSAC remain committed to safely bringing students back for the 2020 Fall Academic Year and having sports compete for conference and national championships this fall season.

We have been working on guidelines on each campus and in each athletic department on how to bring students back to campus safely while minimizing any health risks. Our goal is to make decisions regarding the Fall Sports campaign no later than July 1, in concert with the NAIA.

Due to the recent announcement by the California State University Chancellor and the decision by an NCAA conference in our region, we felt it was necessary to relay to our students that our plans have not changed. We remain hopeful for a full season and committed to a safe environment for our student athletes.

Dr. John Jackson, William Jessup University President and Chair of the GSAC Board of Directors added, “We believe that students can be safe and healthy in campus environments. I am proud of the athletic directors and departments of our schools and believe that our private institutions will work hard to protect the student experience in our communities as we partner with county health agencies.”

We hope this news is informative and encouraging for you as we look towards the fall. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at gbostanic@lifepacific.edu

Blessings,

George Bostanic, M.A.
Vice President of Student Development
Life Pacific University

Update: May 6, 2020

SAN DIMAS, CA (May 4, 2020) – Life Pacific University is moving forward with the commitment to open the University safely this fall. This includes in-person classes and residential life - both west and east campuses.

“We are excited to welcome new and returning students to campus for the 2020-21 school year,” said Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University. “This has been a season of courage for the LPU family as we have navigated the many challenges to ensure the safety of the students, staff, and faculty we serve.” She continued, “Life Pacific University will continue providing affordable excellence and a transformational Christ-centered education to all of our students both on-campus and online.”

Due to Covid-19, LPU’s traditional on-campus classes and chapel both transitioned to online platforms to complete the spring 2020 semester.

Dr. Daniel Ruarte, new Vice President for Academic affairs affirmed, “The health, safety, and well-being of the LPU community is a top priority and the University is working diligently on contingency plans to ensure flexibility working with city and state guidelines.”

The campus in Christiansburg, Virginia will also be open. Rev. Scott Martz, the Site Director of LPU-VA says, “We are looking forward to welcoming back our students this fall. Though things may operate a bit different in light of current realities, we are confident in the measures we are taking to ensure our students safety.”

The Christiansburg campus is becoming a fully integrated component of LPU. While the transition unites both campuses in leadership, mission, and vision, they will retain program distinctives. The east coast campuses utilizes a new 2+2 Model and Residency Network for students to get a unique expereince combining education and hands-on expereince. Click here to view the info packet or click here for the FAQ. Both campuses are focused on Christ-centered education, transformational leadership development, and graduate deployment. Read the full announcement here.

Two tasks forces have been mobilized, one for academics and one for the campus to ensure that learning and campus life are excellent, adaptable, and resourced for student safety and success. This includes establishing procedures for health checks, class configurations, and social distancing protocol. LPU athletics is following standard NAIA and GSAC protocol and will continue to work with governance to properly instill normal functions going into the fall semester. Details will be shared in the coming weeks.

New Student Orientation and Move-in day for San Dimas are set for August 28. Classes being on August 31. Click here to apply.

New Student Orientation and Move-in for LPU- VA are set for August 22. Classes begin August 24. Click here to apply.

Life Pacific University officials continue to closely monitor state and federal guidelines and will update the LPU community as additional information becomes available. At present, CA has issued a stay-at-home order until May 15, 2020.

Update: April 21, 2020

Update Regarding Commencement

Dear Graduating Class of 2020,

You have worked so hard to get this point! Your achievements have been many and we know this type of ending was not expected. Each of you are completing your last courses. Many of you are online for the first time. Like always, you have shined in the midst of challenge. No, it has not been easy and the range of emotions are real, yet we have seen how hard you are working to finish well. We honor each of you. In fact, you are in our thoughts and prayers daily. We are so proud of you and that you will soon be the FIRST graduating class of Life Pacific University!

As mentioned in an update last week, we could not have imagined not being able to honor you this May. We hurt with you and for you. The LPU team gathered information and collaborated on next steps. Based on the 2020 graduates survey from a few weeks ago, your overwhelming preference is to have a commencement ceremony in the Fall of 2020. A new date has been chosen, but we hold it loosely and will comply with government regulations keeping everyone updated as we get closer. Please save the date of September 4-5 for LPU Commencement Festivities.

As we prepare for Commencement Festivities, the LPU Registrar’s Office would like to know your plans. Please complete this form by April 30 to help us plan for the Commencement.

You have three options to choose from:

Participate in the ceremony on September 5, 2020. Your grad fee will be held to cover the graduation charges for the September event.

Participate in the May 2021 commencement ceremony. Your grad fee will be held to cover the graduation charges for the May event.

Graduate in abstention (not walking) in either ceremony. Your student account will be adjusted to reflect the abstention graduation fee of $75.00 and any credit resulting in the reduction in graduation fee will be refunded.

While ceremonies are being postponed, we want to celebrate you now! LPU will be hosting a Virtual Senior Celebration for our traditional undergraduate students on YouTube LIVE May 15, 2020 at 5pm. For our Adult and Graduate Online Students, LPU will be hosting Graduation Celebrations via ZOOM to honor your achievements on May 15, during the day. Mark your calendar and keep an eye out for more information.

We are praying for you and so look forward to celebrating you soon.

Blessings,

President Angie Richey

Update: March 26, 2020

Commencement Update March 26, 2020

Due to the continued public health threat posed by COVID-19, it is with deep sadness that we share the decision to postpone the ceremonies. This decision was carefully made with recommendations from multiple government and health agencies limiting the number of people at gatherings, along with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding this health crisis.

Life Pacific University ceremonies were set to take place on May 2 (LPU-VA) and May 15 and 16 for LPU – San Dimas. While these will no longer be the dates, ceremonies will take place. As part of the planning process, we request that 2020 graduates fill out this survey. In addition, once we receive feedback, seniors and student leaders will be invited into the planning process.

Although the details are uncertain at this time, we will celebrate graduates at commencement with the class of 2020! We cannot change what has happened, as painful as it is, but we will find a way to celebrate the courage and the triumphs of our graduates. A priority is to see our graduates walk across that stage and receive that well-deserved diploma.

Information will be forthcoming.

In this together,

President Angie Richey

Update: March 18, 2020

Hello LPU Community,

The health and well-being of LPU students, faculty, and staff is the top priority of University officials. Over the past few days, there have been many new guidelines issued by the CDC, the State of California, and LA County Public Health. In addition, the City of San Dimas has reported its first case of COVID-19 – this is not connected to our campus. However, in light of these recent developments, university officials are taking the following steps:

All in-person classes will remain in an online delivery format for the remainder of the semester. This includes Chapel. Let me be clear that Life Pacific University is not closing. Following Spring Break, classes and chapels will resume remotely. Many student services will be available remotely such as library services, the Academic Resource Center, and Emmaus Road Christian Counseling. University officials, faculty, and staff are committed to the transformational development of students regardless of the delivery format of courses. Additionally, university officials fully expect to resume in person classes in the fall. For our online and graduate students, your education is not changing – but be sure to keep in contact with your professors.

The LPU Residence Halls will remain open but will allow students to move out without penalty, should they feel it is in their best interest. The residence halls will not be closing completely as university officials understand that not all students may be able to, or want to, leave campus. Graduating students moving out of the residence halls will receive a prorated refund. All other students leaving campus will receive a prorated credit that can be applied to the 2020-2021 academic year. The Office of Residence Life will be reaching out to students who live in the residence halls with more information about refunds, credits, and the check-out process.

Currently, dining services are offering to-go options only. This will continue for students who continue to live in the residence halls. Similar to housing facilities, graduating students who choose to leave campus will receive a prorated refund and all other students leaving campus will receive a prorated credit that can be applied to the 2020-2021 academic year.

At this time, the campus is closed to outside visitors with the exception of vendors and family of students that may be assisting in the check-out process. The Office of Admissions will be hosting campus visits virtually through April 13th.

Yesterday, many faculty or staff with non-essential on-campus functions began to work remotely. However, essential functions, such as the Post, Residence Life, and Dining Services, continue to report to work. Staff and faculty can be contacted via phone or email at this time. Student workers should talk to their department managers.

Decisions regarding Commencement have not been made yet.

Students, for many of you this is a dramatic change. You didn’t sign up to take an online course; you signed up to take an in person courses. If you are feeling overwhelmed by this change, we want you to know that you are supported and cared for during this time. The Office of Academic Affairs will be providing you with resources to help you transition to online learning, including additional academic success coaching. More information to come. Additionally, I want to offer some words of encouragement and practical steps for you to take. If you are feeling like you don’t know where to start in an online course:

Reach out to your professor. They understand the challenges you are facing and are here to help you be successful.

Contact the Academic Resource Center. The ARC will be hosting virtual tutoring sessions for the rest of the semester to help you succeed in your classes.

Reach out to other staff and faculty that you have relationships with. We are all here to serve you during this time.

Talk to your friends. Form virtual study groups, and support each other.

If you are a student that enjoys online learning, reach out to your friends who might be struggling.

You are not alone in this. View this as a new challenge to accomplish, rather than an obstacle in your path. In 7weeks, when the semester is over, you will be so proud of yourself for adapting and growing during this challenging time.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this situation together. You are so valued and loved. While we are deeply disappointed, we will be back together soon! Lastly, may you remember that your life is not canceled and your future is not canceled.

Update: March 16, 2020

The LPU First Aid & Wellness Center is committed to supporting your health, especially during this extended flu season and the current outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

If you start to feel sick:

Do not panic. Symptoms of COVID-19 can be very similar to symptoms of the flu and the common cold. According to the World Health Organization, the three most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and a cough.

Stay home and limit contact with others.

Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Wash your hands often.

Remember that most people, about 80%, recover from COVID-19 without needing any special treatment.

If you start to develop symptoms, please contact the LPU First Aid and Wellness Center. Due to an increased number of office visits, the Wellness Center is now taking appointments. To book an appointment, please click here. Urgent walk-ins are still welcome.

Update: March 13, 2020

Hello LPU Community,

The health and well-being of LPU students, faculty and staff is the top priority of University officials. There are currently no cases of COVID-19 reported at LPU. University officials are monitoring daily the guidelines from the CDC, the California Public Health, and the LA County Public Health.

Out of an abundance of caution, Life Pacific University will be moving all in-person classes to online or modified formats beginning Monday, March 16th through Spring Break March 30th. Students will be receiving communication from their professors regarding specific course requirements.

University housing will remain open, as will dining services. University officials will continue to assess this decision as public health agencies provide recommendations.

Please continue to practice good hygiene: wash your hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, refrain from hugging and shaking hands, and stay home if you are sick. If you have a fever or other flu-like symptoms, please contact the LPU Health and Wellness Center immediately at cduzik@lifepacific.edu.

We appreciate your patience and vigilance as we navigate this evolving situation.

President Angie Richey

Update: March 12, 2020

LPU Community,

The health and well-being of LPU students, faculty, and staff is the top priority of University officials. There are currently no reported cases of COVID-19 at LPU. However, we are monitoring daily the guidelines from the Department of Education, the CDC, and our local and state health authorities. The decisions below have been made out of an abundance of caution and align with public health guidelines.

Classes

At this time, the university has not cancelled in person classes. LPU’s smaller class sizes are a benefit in this situation, as risks are said to be lower for smaller groups. However, we know that this is a rapidly evolving situation. University officials are prepared to make modifications to instructional modalities as so guided by the authorities.

Attendance Policies

Faculty are aware of the evolving situation. Students who are sick should not attended class. Students should talk to their individual professors regarding their situation. Symptom-free students are expected to attend classes as scheduled.

Travel

Effective immediately, all university-related air travel will be canceled through the end of March. This includes the Global Life Spring Break trips to Cuba and Hawaii, which are postponed until further notice. An update will be made by April 1st regarding future travel.

Personal Travel

University officials strongly recommend members of the LPU community to postpone nonessential travel at this time, including plans for Spring Break.

Members of the community who are planning to travel internationally in the coming weeks should review the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Be advised that the U.S. Department of State has advised all U.S. citizens not to embark on cruise travel at this time. For those who choose to travel internationally, be prepared for health screenings, flight cancellations, or isolation measures — including the possibility of a required 14-day self-isolation before returning to campus.

Additionally, students, staff, and faculty who choose to travel to areas where a cluster of cases are being seen should self-report their plans to the LPU’s Health & Wellness Center by filling out this form.

Events

Effective immediately, LPU is limiting the size of events to no more than 200 in attendance through the end of March, unless approved by senior leaders. Events scheduled to take place in April will be evaluated within the next two weeks whether they will continue as planned or need to be modified/canceled. In the meantime, staff, faculty or students who are planning events in April should develop contingency plans.

Chapel and LPU Conference

LPU Conference has been postponed until further notice. All Chapel services will be canceled until after spring break. A future update will be provided regarding Chapel services after Spring Break.

Commencement

Commencement and related activities remain scheduled at this time but are under review. More information will be made available in the coming weeks.

Athletics

LPU Athletics is adapting workout and practice schedules. All university athletes will be contacted by the Athletic Department regarding these changes.

Housing and Dining Facilities

University housing will remain open, as will dining services. University officials will continue to assess this decision as public health agencies provide recommendations.

Provider, LPU’s food service vendor, has begun taking additional health precautions, in alignment with state and local agencies.

Custodial Teams

The LPU facilities team continues to work above and beyond to keep our campus healthy, including increased cleaning procedures and the addition of several new hand sanitizer dispensers around campus.

Staff and Faculty

General operations of the University remain open. Symptom-free staff are expected to continue to work as normal but are encouraged to implement social distancing practices.

Staff and faculty who are sick should stay home and contact their supervisor for further instructions. Consistent with CDC guidelines, faculty or staff should not return to work until they are free of fever for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.

Stigma and Resilience

Public Health outbreaks such as COVID-19 can cause a lot of anxiety. Fear and anxiety can lead to social stigma. According to the CDC, “It is important to remember that people – including those of Asian descent – who do not live in or have not recently been in an area of ongoing spread of the virus that causes COVID-19, or have not been in contact with a person who is a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 are not at greater risk of spreading COVID-19 than other Americans.”Read and share the facts.

Tips to Stay Healthy

There are steps that everyone can take to reduce the risk of getting sick or infecting others:

Stay home when you are sick.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Limit close contact, like kissing, hugging, shaking hands, and sharing cups or utensils.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.

Get a flu shot to prevent influenza if you have not done so this season.

Questions

LPU has created a centralized form for questions and inquiries about COVID-19 related issues. If you have a question, please fill out the form and a member of the Coronavirus Response Team will follow up with you.

We recognize that the precautionary steps being taken may cause inconvenience for members of our community. Please know that the decisions made are done out of care for all students, staff, and faculty and may change as we monitor the campus affects daily. We thank everyone for their continued patience and attentiveness during this evolving situation.

Lastly, this is not a time to fear, but a time to be vigilant. We remain certain of God’s unwavering presence with us. God is in charge. “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.”– Psalm 107:29 (NIV)

Blessings,

President Angie Richey

Update: March 09, 2020

Coronavirus Information

LPU is committed to the safety and health of all students, staff, and faculty. Currently, there are no reported cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) at Life Pacific University. University officials are closely monitoring the situation and updates will be posted on this site as more information becomes available.

What is Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how is it spread?

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), is a virus that can be spread from person-to-person. Patients with COVID-19 have reportedly had mild-to-severe respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

The World Health Organization has officially named the virus COVID-19. It was first detected in Wuhan, China, and has quickly spread throughout China and is confirmed to be present in other countries.

How can I protect myself from the Coronavirus?

Public Health recommends that the public do the following to protect themselves and others from respiratory illnesses:

Stay home when you are sick.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Limit close contact, like kissing and sharing cups or utensils, with people who are sick.

University officials request that student, staff, and faculty self-report any travel to areas where a cluster of cases are being seen. Individuals should self-report to the LPU’s Health & Wellness Center by filling out this form.

How is this affecting university operations?

At this time, the University is not cancelling classes or any other events. However, University officials will continue to monitor to situation.

In addition, to help reduce the spread of germs, Life Pacific University’s facilities team is increasing cleaning and sanitizing procedures, such as wiping door handles and light switches in classrooms daily.

Where can I get more information about the Coronavirus?

We encourage you to get your information from trusted sources for accurate, up-to-date information: